Announces ‘Powered 60’ project ahead of Sesquicentennial
DIMAPUR: As the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) gears up to celebrate the Sesquicentennial of Formal Education in Naga Hills in 2028, a prelude programme was organised on June 26 at Molungyimsen village, where formal education was first introduced by Mrs. Mary Mead Clark.
Marking the occasion, fruits from the 148 year old litchi tree planted by Rev. Dr. Clark were plucked and seeds poly bagged for saplings under the theme “Conserving Heritage.” The saplings will be distributed to every Naga village across all Naga areas in the coming years to commemorate 150 years of formal education in the hills.
Addressing the gathering, NSF leaders expressed profound gratitude to the pioneers who brought the gospel and education to the Naga people, describing the milestone as an appropriate time to thank God and the American missionaries for their love and selfless sacrifice.
On the occasion, NSF also announced the “Powered 60” Educational Project to sponsor civil service aspirants from economically underprivileged backgrounds. Under the project, one aspirant from each assembly constituency in Nagaland will be selected for a year long UPSC coaching and mentorship programme. NSF president, Mteisuding said the initiative aims to empower deserving youth and nurture future leaders.
The Federation further appealed to the Naga people to broaden their outlook and strengthen unity, stressing that the community cannot afford to remain divided any longer.
Elaborating on the forthcoming sesquicentennial celebration, NSF leaders disclosed that the year long observance will feature thanksgiving events to God, the American people and pioneering Naga Christians across all Naga areas.
The prelude programme was addressed by NSF president Mteisuding, SQC convenor, K. Temjen Jamir, Planning Committee member, Medo Yhokha and SDHO Tuli, Imchalemla. The programme was presided over by AKM education secretary, Imlikokba Kichu.
Later in the day, NSF and AKM teams visited Molungkimong village, where the first Naga Christians were baptised and Rev. Dr. Clark lived and worked. The team also held a prayer fellowship with church leaders and village council members, recalling the legacy of faith and education that transformed Naga society.